Breathnach calls for common sense to prevail in power sharing talks

Fianna Fáil TD for Louth and East Meath Declan Breathnach has called for common sense to prevail in the attempts to restore power sharing in Northern Ireland.

Deputy Breathnach said, “It is imperative that we see the restoration of devolution in Northern Ireland as soon as possible. All parties need to return to the negotiation table in order to achieve this.

“Now more than ever Northern Ireland needs stability ahead of this week’s triggering of Article 50 by the UK Government. Brexit represents one of the greatest challenges facing Ireland in a generation. It is imperative that the political institutions are up and running in Northern Ireland to help deal with these challenges.

“I am aware that a number of issues remain to be agreed, with Sinn Féin and the DUP blaming each other for the breakdown in talks. I urge both sides to return to the negotiation tables. The failure of these talks will inevitably lead to either fresh elections or the restoration of direct rule by Minister, both of which are unthinkable outcomes.

“I hope that common sense will prevail and that agreement will be reached to restore devolution in Northern Ireland so that they can play a vital part in the forthcoming Brexit negotiations.”